An assessment of future housing needs in small urban centres: A case study of Mumias town

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study examines the future housing needs in the small urban centre of Mumias in Western Province of Kenya. Mumais is a town with a long a long history that dates as far back as the early 1800, but whose present rapid rate of urbanization started only 1972 as a result of the establishment of a Sugar Industry. In assessing the future housing needs, a number of models that can be applied for this purpose were examined. Two models, out of those examined,that consider housing' needs variables and factors as evident in the study area were chosen. These models guided the whole process of housing assessment in the study area. The major findings of the study show,that a major proportion of the future needs will emanate from the existing inadequencies and rapid increase in population due to the expansion of commercial and industrial enterprises.It also found out that lack of commitment of the government and local authority to housing construction; lack of resources and inappropriate housing policies may hinder t.he realization of the future housing needs. The study has recommended the need for an integrated environmental approach in planning for the housing needs. This planning approach, requires the involvement of all agencies and institutions concerned with housing development with the government and local authority taking the lead in providing the required infrastructure necessary for an environmentally sound housing development